General Information

Arthrotec has been approved as a treatment for arthritis pain.
It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (diclofenac sodium) that is
coated with misoprostol (for protection against stomach ulcer).

Clinical Results

Because of the misoprostol coating, Arthrotec is reported to
carry a reduced risk of causing ulcers in the stomach and small
intestine compared to other non-steroidal anti-inflammatories.

Mechanism of Action

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories alleviate arthritis pain by
inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the affected joint,
but they also reduce prostaglandin synthesis in the
gastrointestinal lining, leading to increased risk of ulcer
formation. Misoprostol fights ulcer formation by reducing the
secretion of stomach acid and boosting mucus production.